Norwich festival features Russian fare

The 15th annual Russian Festival gave patrons much to choose from, but Norwich resident Ann Carignan was happy just spending time in the dining room. “The food was delicious. I wish I could go back and eat again,” Carignan said after a lunch of traditional Russian cuisine served at The Orthodox Church of the Holy New Martyrs and Confessors of Russia, which sponsors the event as a fundraiser.

The 15th annual Russian Festival gave patrons much to choose from, but Norwich resident Ann Carignan was happy just spending time in the dining room.

“The food was delicious. I wish I could go back and eat again,” Carignan said after a lunch of traditional Russian cuisine served at The Orthodox Church of the Holy New Martyrs and Confessors of Russia, which sponsors the event as a fundraiser.

Peter Clegg, a festival organizer, said the proceeds help pay utility bills and other maintenance costs at the 364 Canterbury Turnpike church.

“It really takes a huge burden off our shoulders,” he said.

In addition to Russian vendors, a silent auction, basket raffles and a bake sale, the festival showcases foods prevalent in different parts of the vast country.

Golubtsi, a dish of stuffed cabbage stuffed with seasoned beef and rice, shared space with pierogi, borscht and kotleti.

Father Kevin Kalish, the church’s rector, said bringing members of the public to Holy New Martyrs is important.

Kalish offered people tours of the chapel and other parts of the facility’s grounds, which are undergoing a multi-phase capital improvement project.

“It’s really a nice opportunity for people to come and see our church, and learn about who we are. There is a sense of community,” Kalish said. “It’s a small but growing community.”

Clegg agreed. He said the church has about 60 active members, so sponsoring a major outdoor event like Saturday’s festival is a chance to do outreach while celebrating Russian culture

“This is a very warm and energetic community. We work together all year,” he said. “And this festival is very important financially for the parish. We want to make it much, much bigger.”